Lionel Messi is expected to decline FC Barcelona’s invitation to attend its 125th anniversary gala, according to reports from Mundo Deportivo, which cites anonymous sources.
Last month, Relevo columnist Miguel Rico, a former journalist for the same outlet, revealed that Barcelona had planned to formally invite Messi to the prestigious event. The gala would have marked Messi’s first appearance at an official Barcelona gathering since his emotional departure from the club in 2021.
Messi left under heartbreaking circumstances after President Joan Laporta failed to deliver on an election promise to renew the Argentine’s contract. The club’s financial difficulties and compliance with Financial Fair Play (FFP) regulations forced Messi to leave Barcelona and sign with Paris Saint-Germain on a free transfer.
Now more than three years later, the event would have provided a significant opportunity for Messi and Laporta to publicly reconcile. Reports from Radio Catalunya suggested that Messi, now an eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, was expected to be the star guest at the gala held at the Gran Teatre del Liceu in Barcelona.
Additionally, Messi has already contributed to the club’s anniversary celebrations in other ways. He recently appeared in a 3Cat documentary that followed three candidates competing to have their work chosen as the official anthem of the 125th anniversary.
In an interview with a Catalan media outlet, Messi shared heartfelt reflections on his bond with the city and his long-term plans to return and live there.
“We had to leave Barcelona and Catalonia, but my children are Catalan, and I have lived there my entire life,” Messi said. “I feel like I belong to Barcelona. In our minds, we always plan to live there again. My children, my wife, and I miss life in Barcelona. We left so much behind.”
However, Mundo Deportivo has reported that Messi will not attend the anniversary gala due to “unavoidable commitments” on November 29. As a result, he will miss the opportunity to participate in what would have been a symbolic reunion with Laporta, as well as the chance to create a highly anticipated moment of reconciliation that fans and media have been waiting for.
The outlet confirmed that Messi received his official invitation two weeks ago. While his presence at the event has been ruled out, Messi might still contribute in some capacity. According to Mundo Deportivo, the Argentine legend could leave a pre-recorded message to be played during the ceremony, ensuring that he has some role in the club’s milestone celebration despite his absence.
Messi’s inability to attend is undoubtedly a disappointment for Barcelona fans who hoped to see their greatest-ever player honored in person at the event. Still, his connection to the club remains unshaken, as his reflections about his love for Barcelona and its future underscore the enduring bond he shares with the city and its iconic team.
